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Science News for March 31, 2013


Pitt team finds immunity protein that ramps up inflammation, and agents that can block it

Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine identified a biological pathway that triggers excessive inflammation in pneumonia and sepsis, leading to improved lung function and survival in animal models. The team developed small molecules to inhibit this protein, offering hope for new treatments for these conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 31, 2013
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Congestion in the Earth's mantle

In some Earth's mantle regions, the movement of subducted plates stagnates due to slow diffusion and transformation of mineral components. High-pressure experiments revealed that exchange of elements between minerals slows down significantly at depths of 440-650 kilometers, leading to congestion.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 31, 2013

New models predict drastically greener Arctic in coming decades

Researchers predict a massive 'greening' of the Arctic due to rising temperatures, which could lead to an acceleration of climate warming. The models suggest that tree cover could increase by up to 50% over the next few decades, resulting in significant impacts on the global ecosystem.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 31, 2013

UC Davis researchers discover how cells distinguish friend from foe

Researchers at UC Davis have identified a key protein pathway that distinguishes between harmless and harmful bacteria. The innate immune system recognizes specific sensing proteins that detect invading pathogens, triggering an alarm response to mobilize immune functions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature·DateMar 31, 2013